Ojars Skudra predicts active involvement of Russian media in Latvia's local government elections

  • 2017-01-12
  • BNS/TBT Staff

RIGA - Ojars Skudra, Associate Professor with the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Latvia, believes that Russian media will be actively involved in the local government election campaign this year.

In a publication called Latvia's Foreign and Security Policy, written for the Latvian Institute of International Affairs, Skudra explains that if the positions of the Union of Greens and Farmers and Harmony become stronger on the local level, Russia could exert more pressure with the aim of reorganizing the government by including Harmony in it.

Because of this, Skudra believes there will be active involvement by the Russia media in connection with the local government elections, and not only. Furthermore, the professor points out that when looking at possible foreign policy scenarios, this year will be a year full of challenges in regards to relations with Russia by those directing Latvia's foreign policy, which will only increase the burden of responsibility. This is why a well thought out and effective domestic policy will be an important resource in strengthening Latvia's position within NATO and the EU.